Finding a hair wash with a cold water rinse has been a staple of many beauty treatments for decades. Passed down from generation to generation, this practice is beloved for its many purported hair benefits, including adding shine and increasing strength. But you can't help but wonder: how does cold water actually affect hair?
ContentHow cold water affects hair: is there any benefit to rinsing? How cold water affects hair and scalp health How cold water affects the effectiveness of products Disadvantages of regular cold water rinsing
WomanEL will share with you the opinion of dermatologist Harikiran Chekuri, who answered it as part of the Hair Health Hotline for Shape section.
How does cold water affect hair: is there any benefit to rinsing?
In short – yes. There is some truth to the benefits of cold water for hair. According to Dr. Chekuri, rinsing your hair with cold water can improve your hair's health and appearance. Cold water also helps close the hair cuticle, locking in moisture and nutrients while keeping dirt and bacteria out. The result is hair that is softer, smoother and shinier, less prone to breakage and frizz. For those with colored hair, a cold rinse can also help make the dye last longer.
Cold rinsing can also improve the overall health of your hair by promoting oxygen delivery (via blood circulation to the scalp), adds Dr. Chekuri. The result is not only healthier hair, but also more manageable and easier to style in the long run – all reasons why lowering the temperature at the end of the wash can be worth it.
Like cold water affects hair and scalp health
How to care for your scalp, Source: freepik.com
When it comes to the scalp, Dr. Chekuri points out that cold water can reduce inflammation, irritation, and itching. It also balances the scalp's pH levels, preventing problems such as dandruff and infections, and soothes the scalp from heat, chemicals and styling products. Cold water also helps regulate sebum (natural oil) production, which may be news if your hair tends to be oily.
While there isn't much research to back this up, Dr. Chekuri also notes that many experts believe that cold water helps stimulate blood flow to the scalp, which leads to nourished follicles and hair growth.
How cold water affects the effectiveness of products
This simple rinse can also help lock in the benefits of your products, ensuring that the hydrating and nourishing ingredients in your conditioners and leave-ins penetrate deep into your hair rather than being washed away, explains Dr. Chekuri. Cold water can even help preserve the active ingredients in leave-in products, such as antioxidants, proteins or vitamins, he adds. This can make hair stronger and more elastic.
Disadvantages of Regular Cold Water Rinsing
The biggest disadvantage of cold water rinsing may be the fact that some may feel uncomfortable, especially during the cold season or those who are generally sensitive to cold temperatures . If you find yourself shivering while shampooing while using a cold rinse, you may need to think twice about whether it's worth it.
Additionally, Dr. Chekuri notes that cold water can also cause a temporary constriction of capillaries scalp, reducing blood flow and oxygen delivery. To avoid this, use warm water instead of ice water and limit the duration and frequency of cold rinses.
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